by Happy New Year, and welcome to 2026!
As the new year begins, anime fans are once again looking ahead with excitement—wondering which long-awaited sequels will finally arrive and which beloved classics will return to the spotlight.
One surprising realization this year is just how much time has passed. Many anime series that feel “recent” are, in fact, celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2026. For fans who watched these shows during their original broadcasts, the milestone is both nostalgic and emotional. For newer viewers, it’s the perfect chance to discover iconic titles that helped shape modern anime culture.
In this article, we take a closer look at anime works turning 10 years old in 2026, along with anniversary projects, rebroadcasts, sequels, and fan-driven movements that are keeping these series alive.
KING OF PRISM
A Decade of “Cheering Screenings” and Endless Sparkle
The KING OF PRISM series began with the release of KING OF PRISM by PrettyRhythm on January 9, 2016, and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The films follow a group of passionate young men striving to become “Prism Stars,” entertainers who captivate audiences through dazzling Prism Shows.
What truly set the franchise apart was its “cheering screening” style, where audiences were encouraged to clap, shout, and wave glow sticks—turning movie theaters into live-event spaces and inspiring a nationwide trend.
The most recent installment, KING OF PRISM – Your Endless Call – Everyone Sparkle! Prism Tours, was released in June 2025 and surpassed 1.1 billion yen at the box office, proving the franchise’s lasting popularity.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary, a special website has been launched, and fans are eagerly anticipating further announcements throughout 2026.
KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!
Ten Years of Chaos, Comedy, and Cult Status
Based on the light novels by Natsume Akatsuki, KonoSuba debuted as an anime in 2016 and quickly gained fame for its parody-driven take on the isekai genre.
The story follows Kazuma Satou, a socially withdrawn gamer reincarnated into another world alongside the wildly incompetent goddess Aqua, explosive-obsessed mage Megumin, and masochistic knight Darkness. The series became a fan favorite thanks to its self-aware humor and lovable cast.
The franchise has since expanded to include:
- Multiple TV seasons
- The hit film Legend of Crimson (2019)
- Spin-offs and the crossover series Isekai Quartet
With Season 3 airing in 2024 and a sequel already confirmed, fans are hopeful that 2026’s 10th anniversary will bring even more announcements.
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
Will Saiki’s Story Continue?
Based on the manga by Shuichi Aso, The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. premiered in 2016 and became one of the most beloved comedy anime of its era. The series follows Kusuo Saiki, a high school student with overwhelming psychic powers who simply wants to live a quiet, unnoticed life.
The anime ran until 2018, followed by the Netflix-exclusive Psi Start-Up Arc in 2019. Since then, the franchise has been relatively quiet—until recently.
A post by Aso-sensei after Jump Festa 2025 went viral, reigniting speculation among fans. With the 10th anniversary approaching, many are watching closely for potential revival news.
March Comes in Like a Lion
A Quiet Masterpiece Awaiting Its Next Move
Based on the award-winning manga by Chica Umino, March Comes in Like a Lion tells the deeply emotional story of Rei Kiriyama, a young professional shogi player dealing with loneliness, trauma, and personal growth.
Animated by Shaft and directed by Akiyuki Shinbo, the anime aired two seasons and earned widespread praise for its sensitive storytelling and artistic presentation.
With the manga reaching Volume 18 in September 2025 and approaching its conclusion, many fans hope that the anime will return to adapt the remaining story—making 2026 a crucial year.
Joker Game
Espionage That Still Feels Fresh
Joker Game, based on the novel by Hiroshi Yanagi, aired in 2016 and stood out for its intellectual storytelling and realistic spycraft. Produced by Production I.G, the series featured a large ensemble cast and unpredictable plot twists.
The anime was rebroadcast in October 2025—its first rebroadcast in nearly nine years—and a stage play, Joker Game III, was performed shortly afterward, highlighting continued interest in the franchise.
Bungo Stray Dogs
A Decade of Literary Action
First airing in April 2016, Bungo Stray Dogs blends supernatural battles with characters named after real-life literary figures. Created by Kafka Asagiri and Sango Harukawa, the series has grown into a major franchise with five TV seasons (61 episodes) and over 17 million copies sold across manga and related books.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary in April 2026, 12 pre-anniversary events are already underway. Additionally, a second season of the spin-off Bungo Stray Dogs Wan! is expected to be announced in 2026, making this a landmark year for fans.
Mob Psycho 100
A Complete Story That Still Lives On
Created by ONE, the author of One-Punch Man, Mob Psycho 100 aired its first season in 2016. The story follows Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama, a kind-hearted boy with immense psychic power, as he matures emotionally.
The anime concluded with three seasons, but the franchise remains active through pop-up shops, collaborations, and events—demonstrating how a completed story can still thrive.
Re:ZERO − Starting Life in Another World
A Franchise Still Going Strong at 10 Years
One of the most influential isekai series of the decade, Re:Zero debuted as an anime in 2016. Based on the novels by Tappei Nagatsuki, the series follows Subaru Natsuki, who gains the ability to rewind time upon death.
With:
- Two completed seasons
- OVAs
- Season 3 airing in 2024–2025
- Season 4 scheduled for April 2026
Re:Zero stands as a rare example of a long-running franchise that continues to expand at its 10th anniversary.
Yuri!!! on ICE
Still Loved, Even Without a Sequel
Airing from October to December 2016, Yuri!!! on ICE became a global sensation for its portrayal of competitive figure skating and emotional storytelling.
Although a sequel film was announced and later canceled in April 2024, fan passion remains strong. The full series’ release on YouTube and ongoing social media celebrations—especially on Victor Nikiforov’s birthday (December 25)—prove the anime’s lasting cultural impact.
Love Live! Sunshine!!
Ten Years of School Idol Dreams
Love Live! Sunshine!! debuted in 2016 as part of the broader Love Live! franchise. Since then, the series has expanded into multiple generations and spin-offs.
In recent news, the cross-unit project AiScReam—featuring characters from Sunshine!!, Nijigasaki, and Superstar!!—went viral on TikTok. Their song “Ai Scream!” won Video of the Year at the 2025 TikTok Awards Japan, showing how the franchise continues to reach new audiences.
Final Thoughts: Why 2026 Is a Special Year for Anime Fans
The fact that so many beloved anime are celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2026 is a powerful reminder of how deeply these stories have shaped a generation. Whether through sequels, rebroadcasts, stage plays, or anniversary events, these works continue to evolve alongside their fans.
For longtime viewers, it’s a year of reflection and gratitude. For beginners, it’s the perfect moment to start watching titles that defined modern anime.
One thing is certain: 2026 is a year where nostalgia meets the future.
